The best way to store your clothes

Now that we’re fast approaching the summer months, it’s time to store away all those jumpers and jackets we hopefully won’t need again until autumn. Time to put away those knits and dig out your flip flops. However, if you’re struggling with storage issues, this can cause a real headache. Things not where you thought they were? Nowhere to stash those woolly jumpers? Here are some handy tips to get the most out of your storage and not ruin your clothing in the process:

Wash before storing

Before putting away all of your winter clothes, make sure they are clean and dry. Whether you need to launder them or have them dry-cleaned, this should always be done before you think about storage. If you try to cut corners and put away clothes when they’re dirty, you’ll only be encouraging moths!

You might think you’re being super-efficient by ironing items before storage but it’s better not to iron clothes before putting them away and also to keep them away from starch. Both ironing and starch can weaken fabric fibres and make them more prone to tearing along creases.

Choose the best boxes

When choosing storage boxes, plastic is always preferable to wood, cardboard or paper boxes. Plastic is not only waterproof but protects against insects and pests. Chemicals in wood and cardboard can transfer to clothing and cause damage. If you’re storing woollen clothing, avoid airtight plastic boxes as some natural fibres need space to breathe.

Stay cool

Any storage boxes should always be kept in a dry, cool environment that is off the floor and out of direct sunlight, heat and damp.

Avoid wood

Clothes shouldn’t be stored in direct contact with wood as wood contains certain acids that cause damage to fabric over time.

New wardrobe

If you’re struggling to find the right amount of space or organisation for your clothing, why not consider a contemporary, space-saving design with your choice of storage arrangements? For Fitted Wardrobes Hampshire, Fitted Wardrobes in Hampshire by Lamco-design are the modern, stylish designs to look at.

If you have special fabrics to store, they should be wrapped in tissue paper that’s free from acid. This helps to avoid creasing and keeps the material more protected.

Long term storage

For items that you don’t need often but want to keep, like a wedding dress, a special box that’s acid-free is recommended. For other types of clothing in long term storage, take them out twice a year to refold along different lines to avoid persistent creasing and prevent tears or weakness occurring.

Vacuum packing

Storing your items in a vacuum-sealed bag is a great way to save on space whilst preventing damage from dirt, mould, insects, pests and damp.